It’s nearly Christmas – so we know what that means. Presents, activities, travel, time off – which means – financial stress.
Money plays a significant role in our lives, influencing not only our financial stability but also our overall well-being. However, many people struggle with their relationship with money due to past financial traumas. These traumas can have lasting effects on our mental and emotional health, causing anxiety, and stress, and even impacting our relationships. Fortunately, there is help available through counselling services. In this blog, we’ll explore what financial trauma is, how it affects your relationship with money, and how seeking support from your therapist can help you heal and regain control over your financial well-being.
Understanding Financial Trauma
Financial trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress resulting from experiences related to money. These experiences can include job loss, bankruptcy, mounting debt, theft, fraud, or even growing up in an environment where financial insecurity was a constant presence. These events can leave deep emotional scars, leading to feelings of fear, guilt, shame, and anxiety about money.
Impact on Your Relationship with Money
Financial trauma often manifests in unhealthy relationships with money, which can have far-reaching effects on your life. Here are a few ways it can impact you:
- Fear and Avoidance: People with financial trauma may avoid dealing with their finances altogether. They may procrastinate paying bills, checking bank statements, or making financial decisions, which can lead to worsening financial situations.
- Overspending or Underspending: Some individuals may cope with financial trauma by overspending to fill emotional voids, while others might adopt extreme frugality, denying themselves basic necessities.
- Strained Relationships: Financial trauma can lead to conflict within relationships, as the stress and anxiety associated with money problems spill over into personal interactions.
- Anxiety and Depression: Chronic financial stress can contribute to the development of anxiety and depression, impacting your overall mental health.
How we can help.
Our therapists want to support those seeking guidance and support to overcome financial trauma and improve their relationship with money. Here’s how they can assist you:
- Emotional Support: Our trained counsellors provide a safe space for you to express your feelings about financial trauma. They can help you process the emotions and anxieties that have built up over time.
- Identifying Triggers: Counselors will work with you to identify the specific events or triggers that have led to your financial trauma. Understanding the root causes is crucial for effective healing.
- Developing Coping Strategies: We can help you develop healthier coping strategies for dealing with financial stress and anxiety. These strategies may include mindfulness techniques, stress management, and communication skills.
- Financial Education: Many people with financial trauma lack basic financial knowledge. Your therapist can offer educational resources and guidance to improve your financial literacy, empowering you to make more informed decisions.
- Budgeting and Planning: Counselors can assist you in creating a personalized budget and financial plan that aligns with your goals and values, helping you take control of your finances.
- Rebuilding Confidence: Over time, counselling can help you regain your confidence and self-esteem, reducing feelings of shame and guilt related to money.
Financial trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on your relationship with money, as well as your overall well-being. However, with the support of your therapist, you can heal from past financial traumas and develop a healthier, more positive relationship with your finances. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You can regain control over your financial well-being and start your journey towards a brighter financial future.
Check out our team here to book an appointment.
